The Senate is in session this week, but the House is in recess.
It is anticipated that the Senate may begin floor work on its budget resolution this week, culminating in a “vote-a-rama,” which is a series of votes on amendments that would likely not be included in a final package but are intended to force Senators to publicly state their position on contentious issues.
The resolution establishes a path for reconciliation that permits the upper chamber to sidestep its 60-vote requirement and pass legislation with only Republican votes. As of now, Senate Republicans are hoping to pass two separate reconciliations packages: a fully offset border security, defense and energy bill and then a tax bill later in the year.
It also becoming increasingly likely that congressional leaders and appropriators will have to move forward with another continuing resolution or risk the potential of a government shutdown when current funding expires on March 14, but no final decisions have been made. It is also possible that lack of support for a continuing resolution may prompt discussions of a lapse in federal funding on March 14.
The Senate will continue confirming President Trump’s cabinet nominations this week, with a floor vote scheduled Monday on the nomination of Howard Lutnick to lead the Commerce Department. Votes are also scheduled for Kelly Loeffler to head the Small Business Administration and Kash Patel to serve as FBI Director.
Other Trump cabinet nominees will be considered in the committee process this week:
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